The Most Famous Scottish Woman: Recognizing Scotland's Influential Female Figures

Voting rules: Choose the woman you think is the most famous!

Jun 16, 2023 10:18 (Updated on Nov 16, 2023 11:30)

Welcome to StrawPoll, where your opinions breathe life into the rankings! Today, we're diving into the enchanting world of Scottish women who have left an indelible mark on the world. We've curated a list of the most famous Scottish women who've inspired generations with their talent, charm, and resilience. But we need your help to crown the ultimate Scottish queen! Cast your vote, make your voice heard, and take part in this thrilling journey as we celebrate the enchanting allure of these bonnie lasses. And if your favorite Scottish heroine is missing from our list, don't fret! You can also suggest a deserving name to be added to the ranking. So, what are you waiting for? Dive in, explore, and revel in the fierce spirit of these incredible Scottish women!

Who Is the Most Famous Scottish Woman?

1

78
votes
Mary, Queen of Scots

A prominent figure in Scottish history, Mary Stuart was the queen of Scotland from 1542 to 1567. She is known for her turbulent reign and eventual execution.
Description

Mary, Queen of Scots is a historical drama film that depicts the life and tumultuous reign of Mary Stuart, the Queen of Scotland. The story follows Mary's return to Scotland after spending her childhood in France, her struggles to assert her claim to the English throne, and the political and personal conflicts she faced during her reign.

Genre: Historical drama

Release Year: 2018

Running Time: 124 minutes

Main Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Margot Robbie, Jack Lowden

Production Company: Focus Features
Mary, Queen of Scots in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular Lost Mary
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous King of Scotland
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous Queen
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous person in Scotland
2

29
votes
Wasforgas · CC BY-SA 3.0

Susan Boyle

Susan Boyle

A singer who gained international fame after appearing on Britain's Got Talent in 2009. Boyle's rendition of "I Dreamed a Dream" became a viral sensation and propelled her to stardom.
Description

Susan Boyle is a rendition of the song 'Hallelujah' performed by Scottish singer Susan Boyle. Her version gained immense popularity and became widely recognized worldwide.

Year of release: 2009

Album: I Dreamed a Dream

Genre: Pop

Length: 3:47

Label: Syco/Columbia
Susan Boyle in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous BGT contestants
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous Scottish singer
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous Glaswegian
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous person with Asperger's
- Position 9 of 10 in Most popular version of "Hallelujah"
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous AGT contestant
3

8
votes
Scottish Government · CC BY 2.0

Nicola Sturgeon

The current First Minister of Scotland and leader of the Scottish National Party. Sturgeon has been a prominent figure in Scottish politics for many years, advocating for Scottish independence and progressive policies.
Nicola Sturgeon in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous person in Scotland
- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular MP
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous Glaswegian
4

17
votes
Daniel Ogren · CC BY 2.0

J.K. Rowling

J.K. Rowling

The author of the Harry Potter series, Rowling was born in England but has lived in Scotland for many years. Her books have sold millions of copies worldwide and have been adapted into successful films.
Description

J.K. Rowling is a highly successful British author best known for creating the Harry Potter franchise. Her books have gained worldwide popularity, selling more than 500 million copies and being translated into multiple languages. The Harry Potter series has been adapted into a highly successful film franchise, with a total gross of over $7 billion. Rowling's writing has captivated audiences of all ages and continues to have a significant cultural impact.

Books Sold: Over 500 million

Languages Translated: Multiple

Film Adaptations: 8 movies in the Harry Potter series

Total Film Gross: Over $7 billion

Cultural Impact: Significant
J.K. Rowling in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous children's author
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous storyteller Yeager
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous female novelist
- Position 7 of 10 in Most successful celebrities of all time
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous Brit
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous mother
5

13
votes

Eunice Olumide

A model and fashion designer, Olumide has worked with major fashion brands and is known for her activism and advocacy for diverse representation in the fashion industry.
6

10
votes
https://www.flickr.com/photos/jareed/ · CC BY 2.0

Shirley Manson

The lead singer of the band Garbage, Manson is a Scottish musician and actress. She has been a fixture in the music industry since the 1990s and has won multiple awards for her work.
Shirley Manson in other rankings
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous Scottish singer
7

8
votes

David Woolfall · CC BY 3.0

Mhairi Black

The youngest person elected to the British Parliament in 350 years, Black is a Scottish politician who has been a vocal advocate for progressive policies and social justice.
8

8
votes
Library of Congress Life · CC0

Annie Lennox

A Scottish musician and activist, Lennox has won multiple Grammy Awards and has been an advocate for various causes, including HIV/AIDS awareness and women's rights.
Annie Lennox in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Scottish singer
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous Annie
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous artist in Scotland
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous Scottish celebrities
9

14
votes
© Ra Boe / Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0 de

Karen Gillan

An actress known for her roles in Doctor Who and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Gillan was born in Inverness, Scotland. She has been a rising star in Hollywood in recent years.
Karen Gillan in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous Karen
- Position 6 of 10 in Most beautiful woman with red hair in the world
10

3
votes
Evert Duykinck · Public domain

Mary Somerville

Mary Somerville

A pioneering scientist and mathematician, Somerville was born in Scotland in 1780. She was one of the first women to be admitted to the Royal Astronomical Society and was an important figure in the development of modern physics.
Description

Mary Somerville was a Scottish science writer, polymath, and one of the most prominent female scientists of the 19th century. She made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics, astronomy, and physical sciences. Her work greatly influenced the scientific community and was instrumental in paving the way for future generations of women in science.

Birthdate: December 26, 1780

Death date: November 29, 1872

Fields: Mathematics, Astronomy, Physical Sciences

Notable Publications: Mechanism of the Heavens, The Connection of the Physical Sciences

Contributions: Contributed to the discovery of Neptune, Popularized the work of other scientists through her writings, Advocated for women's education in science
Mary Somerville in other rankings
- Position 10 of 10 in Most beautiful scientist

Missing your favorite woman?

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Discussion

Ranking factors for famous woman

Historical Significance

Consider the impact and contribution of the individual to Scottish history. Did they play a crucial role in political, social, cultural, or scientific achievements?
Achievements and Recognition

Look at the individual's achievements and recognition both within Scotland and internationally. Have they been honored with awards, titles, or prestigious positions?
Influence and Legacy

Assess the individual's influence and lasting impact on Scottish society, as well as their influence on future generations. Did their work pave the way for others or inspire change?
Popularity and Cultural Impact

Consider the individual's popularity and how well-known they are among the general public, not just in Scotland but also globally. Have they had a significant cultural impact through their work in fields like arts, music, literature, or entertainment?
Public perception and Recognition

Take into account how widely recognized and celebrated the person is during their time as well as in present-day discussions.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous Scottish woman. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or woman is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1473 views
188 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each woman once every 24 hours. The rank of each woman is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous scottish woman

Scotland is a country that has produced many iconic figures in history, and some of the most notable ones are its women. The country has produced many famous women who have made significant contributions to various fields, including politics, arts, and science. These women have left an indelible mark on the world, and their stories continue to inspire generations. From pioneering aviator Amy Johnson to legendary writer J.K. Rowling, Scotland has produced many famous women who have made significant contributions to the world. However, when it comes to the most famous Scottish woman of all time, the list is long and varied. Some of the most notable names include Mary Queen of Scots, who was the first woman to rule Scotland in her own right, and the famous nurse and social reformer, Florence Nightingale, who was born to Scottish parents. Other notable names include the famous novelist, Jane Austen, and the celebrated singer and songwriter, Annie Lennox. Today, Scotland continues to produce talented and influential women who are making their mark in various fields. From Nicola Sturgeon, the current First Minister of Scotland, to award-winning actress Tilda Swinton, Scottish women continue to inspire and lead the way. With so many famous and influential women to choose from, it's no wonder that the question of who is the most famous Scottish woman is still very much up for debate.